MOCK QUESTION PAPER FOR INTRODUCTORY

1) THREE OBSTACLES & FOUR DEVILS WHAT R THEY ? & HOW CAN U OVERCOME THESE? PLS EXPLAIN BRIEFLY.

2) HOW CAN U MAKE THE BEST USE OF THE 3 BASIC COMPONENTS OF OUR DESIRES?

3) MUTUAL POSSESSION OF THE TEN WORLDS CAN BE SEEN AS THE “INCLUSION OF BUDDHAHOOD IN THE NINE WORLDS”---PLS EXPLAIN THESE LINES

4) WHAT R THE 3 POWERFUL ENEMIES & HOW DID DAISHONIN FIGHT AGAINST THEM TO BECOME VICTORIOUS?

5) “MAN & HIS ENVIRONMENT ARE INSEPARABLE”WHY & HOW CAN U PROVE THIS CONCEPT?

6) BRIEFLY EXPLAIN ABOUT THE ONENESS OF BODY & MIND?

7) WHO ARE THE SHOTEN ZENGIN ? & HOW DO U ACTIVATE THEMIN THE UNIVERSE?

8) WHAT R THE 4 NOBLE VIRTUES OF BUDDHA? WHO WERE ENTRUSTED WITH THE MISSION OF KRF & WHY ? PLS EXPLAIN.

9) PLS EXPLAIN THESE LINES BRIEFLY—THE DAISHONIN WRITES,”THE BUDDHA’S WILL IS THE LOTUS SUTRA, BUT THE SOUL OF NICHIREN IS NOTHING OTHER THAN NAM-MYOHO-RENGE-KYO”
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9B) “BUT YOUR FAITH ALONE WILL DETERMINE ALL THESE THINGS. A SWORD IS USELESS IN THE HANDS OF A COWARD. TH MIGHTY SWORD OF THE LOTUS SUTRA MUST BE WIELDED BY ONE COURAGEOUS IN FAITH. THEN ONE WILL BE AS STRONG AS A DEMON ARMED WITH AN IRON STAFF”

10) “ALTHOUGH I & MY DISCIPLES MAY ENCOUNTER VARIOUS DIFFICULTIES, IF WE DO NOT HARBOUR DOUBTS IN OUR HEARTS, WE WILL AS A MATTER OF COURSE ATTAIN BUDDHAHOOD”---- WHO HAS SAID THESE WORDS & TO WHO, IN WHAT CONTEXT? WHAT MESSAGE IS HE TRYING TO CONVEY?
R
10A) “ FOOLISH MEN ARE LIKELY TO FORGET THE PROMISES THEY HAVE MADE WHEN THE CRUCIAL MOMENT COMES”? WHO R THESE FOOLISH PEOPLE & WHAT PROMISES DID THEY MAKE & WHEN? BRIEFLY EXPLAIN.

11) HOW MANY TIMES DAISHONIN WAS EXILED & PERSECUTED & WHY? WHAT TREATISE DID HE SUBMIT THE THEN GOVT., & FOR WHAT PURPOSE?
12) WHAT IS ETERNAL BOND OF ONENESS OF MENTOR & DISCIPLE?WHEN WAS THE FOUNDING OF SGI DONE & WHAT IS SGI’S SPIRIT?
13) WHO HAS GOT ENLIGHTENMENT IN THE PRISON? WHO WAS HIS MENTOR & WHO WAS HIS DISCIPLE HOW R THEY CONNECTED TO EACHOTHER?
14) WHAT IS THE TEMPLE ISSUE? WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR US 2 KNOW?
15) WHO WAS AFFECTED BY OPERATION “C” & WHOSE THOUGHT WAS THAT? WHAT WERE THE RESULTS OF THIS OPERATION”C”/





Sample paper 1A

Set of questions from Flowering of Faith: these are only to assist with learning and are not representative of the Introductory exam in any way and should not be construed as such.

Closed Book test – part 1.

Fill in the blanks:
1. Mutual possession of _____ worlds means that the world of ____________ is present in all of the ________ Worlds.
2. “As practice progresses and understanding grows, the ________ obstacles and _______ devils emerge in confusing forms, vying with one another to interfere …”
3. Nichiren Daishonin identified himself as the Bodhisattva _____________ practices, leader of the ___________ of the __________.
4. The function of making others feel safe and supported is _______________.
5. “The stronger one’s ________, the greater the protection of _______.”


Say True or False and then explain your choice in a couple of sentences:
1. When we get problems it means we are not practicing correctly.
2. Earthly desires in themselves are enlightenment
3. Esho Funi is the principle of oneness of body and mind
4. If our life state is high, we recover faster from illness.
5. True self represents a state of awareness of life’s eternity across three existences.

Short answers:
1. What does Nichiren Daishonin advice us to do when obstacles and devils show up as our practice grows?
2. Which hindrance to our practice is considered the toughest to overcome and why?
3. How is Mahayana Buddhism different from Hinayana Buddhism – give at least one key difference?
4. What are the basic types of earthly desires?
5. What is the difference between the second type and third type of powerful enemy?
6. How does understanding the mutual possession of ten worlds help us?
7. What’s the difference between the devils and the obstacles?
8. Why are earthly desires necessary?
9. How can one by changing self bring about change in the environment?
10. The four noble qualities represented by the four leaders of the Bodhisattvas are …
11. Who are the Buddhist gods? What is one key property of the Buddhist gods?
12. Explain zuiho bini and how it is relevant to us today.






















Sample paper 1B

• Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds
1. Explain the concept mutual possession of the ten worlds.
2. What is the difference between pre-lotus sutra teachings and the lotus sutra teachings?
3. Why is it important to understand the concept of Mutual Possession of the ten worlds?
4. How can we manifest the supreme state of Buddhahood in our lives?
5. A Buddha is different from ordinary people. Is this true or false?
• The Three Obstacles and Four Devils
6. What are the three obstacles and four devils?
7. What do the three obstacles and four devils hinder?
8. Which hindrance is said to assume various forms in order to cause one to discard one’s Buddhist practice?
9. Which hindrance is the most difficult to overcome?
• Earthly Desires Lead to Enlightenment
10. How can earthly desires lead to enlightenment?
11. How can we direct our earthly desires towards enlightenment?
12. The Lotus blooms in muddy waters. How can we correlate this with our practice?
• Three Powerful Enemies
13. Who are the three powerful Enemies?
14. Which of the three powerful enemies is the most powerful?
• Oneness of Life and its Environment
15. What is the concept of Esho funi?
16. In ‘On Attaining Buddhahood in this Lifetime’, the Daishonin writes, “If the minds of living beings are ____________, their ________ is also ________, but if their minds are pure, so is their land.”
17. Why is it important to view ourselves and our environment as essentially one?
• Oneness of Body and Mind
18. What does the Japanese term Shikishin-funi mean?
19. How can we manifest the true aspect of oneness of body and mind?
• Bodhisattvas of the Earth
20. Who are the Bodhisattvas of the earth?
21. Which noble qualities of a Buddha are represented by the Bodhisattvas of the Earth?
22. Which Bodhisattva represents true self?
23. Which Bodhisattva corresponds to eternity?
24. Which Bodhisattva corresponds to purity?
25. Which Bodhisattva corresponds to happiness and a life state of spiritual peace and enlightenment?
• Precept of Adapting to Local Customs
26. What does the Japanese term zuiho bini mean?
27. What does the Buddhist Precept of Adapting to Local Customs indicate?
28. What is Sensei’s biggest concern in the area of Buddhist Precept of Adapting to Local Customs?
• Benevolent Deities
29. Who are the benevolent deities?
30. Which prayer do we offer to the benevolent deities?
31. When and how did the benevolent deities protect the Daishonin?
32. How can we strengthen the benevolent deities?










Sample paper 2

QUESTIONS TO FACILITATE STUDY TOWARDS INTRODUCTORY EXAMINATION

QUESTIONS ON BUDDHIST CONCEPTS

MUTUAL POSSESION OF TEN WORLDS

1. What was the pre-Lotus Sutra teachings concept of the ten worlds?

2. How did the theory of the ‘Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds’ revolutionize this concept?

3. What is one of the component principles of Tien-t’ai’s doctrine of three thousand realms in a single moment of life?

4. What does ‘Mutual Possession’ mean?

5. What is the important point of the principal of the ‘Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds’?

6. The principles of the ‘inclusion of Buddhahood in the nine worlds’ and the inclusion of the nine worlds in Buddhahood’ hold great importance. Why?

7. “The Life Span” Chapter of the Lotus Sutra refers to what aspect of Shakyamuni’s enlightenment?

8. In “The Life Span” Chapter of the Lotus Sutra, the Daishonin discerned the means for :
• attaining Buddhahood without having to discard one’s body as an ordinary person of the nine worlds
• actualizing the principle of the ‘Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds’

9. A life-state in the nine worlds is steeped in:
• _______________________
• _______________________
• _______________________

10. The key to transforming a life state in nine worlds into Buddhahood is:
• ___________________________________
• ___________________________________
• ___________________________________

THREE OBSTACLES AND FOUR DEVILS

11. Explain in simple terms the three obstacles and four devils which are listed in the Nirvana Sutra?

12. The Gosho states,
• “As _________ progresses and ___________ grows, the __________ obstacles and four _______ emerge in confusing forms, vying with one another to interfere…

• One should be neither ______________ nor _______________ by them.

• If one falls under their influence, one will be led into the paths of _______. If one is frightened by them, one will be prevented from practicing the ______________ teaching.

13. Why are devils certain to appear in the course of our practice?

14. When devils and obstacles appear, what is the crucial juncture at which one finds oneself?

15. Obstacles refer to __________ whereas devils are literally translated as robbers of _________ and __________.

16. What are the three obstacles?

17. Briefly explain:
Obstacles Cause Manifestation of obstruction
1) Obstacle of earthly desire



2) Obstacle of karma



3) Obstacle of retribution




18. Briefly explain

Four Devils Manifestation of Hindrance
1) The hindrance of five components


2) The hindrance of earthly desire


3) The hindrance of death


4) The hindrance of the devil of the sixth heaven

19. Which hindrance is regarded as most difficult to overcome?

20. What do devilish functions prey on?

21. “Strengthen your faith day by day and month after month. Should you slacken even a bit, demons will take advantage” (WND -1, p. 997). What does this passage tell us?

22. The practice of Buddhism is a continuous struggle against:
• _______________________
• _______________________

23. If devils do not appear in our practice of Buddhism, what does it indicate?

24. The Gosho states, “Something uncommon also occurs when an ordinary person attains _______________. At such a time, the three __________ and four ____________ will invariably appear, and the _________ will rejoice while the foolish will __________. (WND-1, p. 636)

25. What should we do when the devilish functions occur in our life ? With what conviction should undertake these activites?

26. What is the only way to lead a brilliant and victorious life?

EARTHLY DESIRES ARE ENLIGHTENMENT

27. What is the contrast between the Mahayana and the Hinayana view of earthly desires?

28. The most basic type of earthly desires are represented by :
• ________________
• ________________ and
• ________________

29. What does Greed mean?

30. What does Anger signify?

31. What does Stupidity refer to?

32. What is the basis of all suffering and unhappiness in our lives?

33. It would be simplistic to dismiss desire as wholly evil. Illustrate how desires can be the driving force of civilization?

34. What does the word “are” in the phrase “earthly desires are enlightenment” mean?

35. Illustrate the principle of “earthly desires are enlightenment,” with a metaphor.

36. What happens to our earthly desires when we tap our Buddha nature, through practice to the Gohonzon?

THREE POWERFUL ENEMIES

37. Briefly explain, who are the three powerful enemies?

38. Miao-lo summarizes the three powerful enemies as:

THREE POWERFUL ENEMIES ACTION TAKEN AGAINST PRACTITIONERS
1) Arrogant lay people

2) Arrogant Priests


3) Arrogant false sages



39. Which is the most formidable of the three powerful enemies?

40. Nichiren Daishonin was able to identify himself as the votary, or true practitioner of the Lotus Sutra because, just as prophesized in the sutra, he was
• ________________________________________________________
• ________________________________________________________
• ________________________________________________________

ONENESS OF LIFE AND ITS ENVIRONMENT
41. MATCH THE FOLLOWING:

Esho Funi
Indicates “two(in phenomena) but not two (in essence).”
Esho
Reward or effect
Shoho
Abbreviation of nini-funi
Eho
The oneness of life and its environment
Funi
Denotes a living being
Nini funi
Combination of the first syllables of eho and shoho
Ho of shoho & eho Environment on which a living being is dependent for its life activities and survival

42. Why does each living being have its own unique environment?

43. Esho Funi as a concept goes further than denoting just the inseparable relationship between man and his environment. What does this principle show/teach us?

44. The way we see our environment differs depending on
• ___________________________________
• ___________________________________

45. Life extends its influence into the surroundings. What is our environment a reflection of?

46. Nichiren Daishonin writes in ‘ On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime: “Ifthe minds of living beings are ___________, their land is also impure, but if their minds are pure, so is their lands. There are no two lands, _______ or __________ in themselves. The difference lies solely in the _______ or evil of our minds.”

47. Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism enables us to transform the place where we are now into, ‘a Land of Eternally Tranquil Light” and there construct a palace of happiness. How can we achieve this happiness?
ONENESS OF BODY AND MIND

48. Briefly explain the principle of oneness of body and mind.

49. Match the following:

Shikishin-funi Indicates “two(in phenomena) but not two (in essence).”
Shiki
Abbreviation of nini-funi
Shin
Oneness of body and mind
Funi That which has form and colour or physical existence
Nini-funi That which has neither form nor colour, such as mind, heart and soul


50. Though the material and the spiritual are two separate classes of phenomena, they are indivisible. Illustrate this with an example of a person

51. What is a very important function of matter and spirit as an inseparable whole?

52. The record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings reads, “ ( Concerning the term dedication of one’s life) ‘____________ refers to the element of physical form as it pertains to us while ‘_________’ refers to the element of mind as it pertains to us. But the ultimate teaching tells us that _________ and ________ are not two.”

53. According to Nichiren Daishonin, how can we manifest the true aspect of ones wherein body and mind are in complete harmony?

BODHISATTVAS OF THE EARTH

54. Who are Bodhisattvas of the Earth?

55. They are described in which chapter of the Lotus Sutra?

56. Shakyamuni Buddha entrusted the propagation of the mystic law in the Latter Day of the Law to the Bodhisattvas of the Earth in the ________ world.


57. The Bodhisattvas of the Earth are lead by four bodhisattvas. They are:
1) ___________________________________
2) ___________________________________
3) ___________________________________
4) ___________________________________

58. Who is the leader among these four bodhisattvas?

59. In which chapter of the Lotus Sutra does Shakyamuni transfer the essence of the Lotus Sutra to the Bodhisattvas of the Earth, entrusting them with the mission of propagating it in the Latter Day of the Law?

60. The four bodhisattvas are the embodiment of the four noble qualities of a Buddha. These noble qualities are:
• ___________________
• ___________________
• ___________________
• ___________________
61. MATCH THE FOLLOWING:
Name of the Bodhisattva Quality of a Buddha
BODHISATTVA SUPERIOR PRACTICES PURITY

BODHISATTVA BOUNDLESS PRACTICES HAPPINESS

BODHISATTVA PURE PRACTICES TRUE SELF

BODHISATTVA FIRMLY ESTABLISHED PRACTICES ETERNITY


62. Match the following :
Quality of a Buddha STATE OF LIFE
HAPPINESS
• Awareness that one is a Buddha.
• A state of life characterized by Firm sense of independence and
• Conviction that remains unfazed by hardships
PURITY
• A state of being awakened to life’s eternity across the three existences of past, present and future
• A vast and boundless state of mind based on the eternal law of cause and effect
• A state that is free of suffering caused by fear of death, which stems from ignorance of the eternity of life
ETERNITY
• Represents the function of continuously manifesting the pure life of the Buddha and
• Purifying all phenomena while remaining untainted by the defilements of the world
TRUE SELF
• A life state of spiritual peace and enlightenment.
• Brims with a strong life-force and enjoyment of life, never wavering in the face of hardships
• Represents the function of making others fee safe and supported.


63. When we undertake the mission of the Bodhisattva of the Earth, what life state do we manifest in or lives and what does it enable us to achieve?

64. Nichiren Daishonin identified himself with which Bodhisattva?

65. In ‘The True Aspect of All Phenomena’ Nichiren Daishonin states: “ There should be no ___________________ among those who propagate the five characters of myoho-renge-kyo in the Latter Day of the Law, be they _________ or women. Were they not Bodhisattvas of the Earth, they could not chant the _____________. “

66. According to the lotus Sutra, what are the qualities that the Bodhisattvas of the Earth possess?

BENEVOLENT DEITIES

67. Briefly describe the shoten zenjin or benevolent deties?
68. What form do they appear in?
69. Some of the Benevolent deities include:
• _______________________
• _______________________
• _______________________
• _______________________
70. In the Lotus Sutra, who are regarded as the gods?

71. Whom do the benevolent deities serve to protect?

72. Benevolent deities are not in any way the object of ______________.

73. From the viewpoint of Buddhism’s profound life philosophy, it is not mere coincidence but logical for benevolent deities to appear. What brings forth the phenomena of shoten zenjin at a crucial moment?

74. In the Gosho, ‘Genera Stone Tiger’ the Daishonin states, “The stronger one’s _____________, the greater the ___________ of the gods. This means that the protection of gods depends on the _____________ of one’s faith.

75. In ‘ The Treatment of Illness’, the Daishonin writes “ The fundamental nature of __________________manifests itself as Brahma and Shakra whereas the fundamental _______________ manifests itself as the devil king of the sixth heaven”.

76. In the above passage what are Gods viewed as?

77. How can we who practice the Mystic Law change circumstances into the workings of Buddhist gods?

PERCEPT OF ADAPTING TO LOCAL CUSTOMS

78. Briefly explain the Buddhist percept of adapting to the local custom?

79. What does the Buddhist concept of zuiho bini mean?

80. With regard to the Buddhist percept of adapting to the local custom, what was Shinichi’s biggest fear, as expressed in the New Human Revolution?










Sample paper 3
Questions Based on the Concepts---
Please Note:
1. These questions are meant to help you learn better
2. They are not indicative in any which way of how the paper will be set
Mutual Possession of Ten-Worlds
Q1.What does the pre lotus-sutra teachings expound on the Ten-Worlds?

Q2.What do ‘Mutual possession of the Ten-Worlds” mean?

Q3.How is this principle important to transform life steeped in Earthly desires, karma and suffering.

Q4.Do you have to change form to attain Budhha-Hood?
Three obstacles and four devils
Q1. What do the 3 obstacles and 4 devils mean?

Q2. Distinguish between obstacles and devils?

Q3. List three obstacles and four devils.

Q4. What should one do when they arise?

Q5. Why are these obstruction necessary?

Q6. When do these devilish forces attack?

Q7. What will happen if you allow these obstructions to effect you?
Earthly Desires are Enlightenment
Q1. What is the difference between Mahayana and Hinayana teachings on Earthly desires and Enlightenment?

Q2. Which are the Earthly desires that lead to suffering?

Q3. Explain Earthly desires are Enlightenment with help of an example or metaphor?

Q4. How can we transform earthly desires into Enlightenment?
Three Powerful Enemies
Q1. What are three powerful enemies?

Q2. Which of three is the most formidable of thr three powerful enemies?

Q3. Why is Nichiren Daishonin the true votary of the Lotus-Sutra?
Bodhisattvas Of the Earth
Q1. Who are Bodhisattvas of the Earth?

Q2. In which chapter of the Lotus-Sutra do they appear?

Q3. Describe the emergence of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth.

Q4. Name the four leaders of the BOE.

Q5. Describe the qualities of each BOE.
Oneness of life and environment
Q1. Explain esho funi in detail. What is eho? What is sho? What is ho? Of sho?

Q2. How does the principle of esho funi work to make us happy?

Q3. How can we apply this principle to change the land we live in?

Q4. What is the relation between man and his environment? How can they affect one another?

Q5.Are there two lands? Where does the pure land exist?

Q6 .where does the grand palace of happiness exist ?
Q 7 What is the key to accessing that grand palace of happiness
Oneness of Body and mind
Q1. Explain the principle of oneness of body and mind.

Q2. Explain shiki-shin funi.

Q3. How are material and spiritual seemingly separate phenomena indivisible?
Benevolent Deities
Q1. What are shoten zenjin?

Q2. What is the function of benevolent deities?

Q3. How can we activate the benevolent deities?

Sample paper 4

QUESTIONS TO FACILITATE STUDY TOWARDS INTRODUCTORY EXAMINATION

LIFE OF NICHIREN DAISHONIN

CHILDHOOD

1. When was Nichiren Daishonin born?
2. What was his family’s occupation?
3. Where was Nichiren Daishonin born:
Village ________________________
Region ________________________
Country ________________________
4. His parents named him _______________(Splendid Sun)
5. At what age did Nichiren Daishonin become a novice monk? Which temple?
6. In those days why did temples serve as centers for learning?
7. What was the state of Buddhism at that time?

BECOMING THE WISEST PERSON IN JAPAN

1. As Zennichimaro advanced in his studies what doubts arose in his mind?
2. What did he resolve to do?
3. What did he single-mindedly sought to become?

THE YEARS OF STUDY

1. In his search for truth, Zennichimaro thoroughly studied the doctrines of the following schools:
• ___________________
• ___________________
• ___________________

2. Zennichimaro was ordained as a priest:
• On______________________
• At the age of ______________
• By _________________, the chief priest of Seicho-ji.

3. On becoming a priest he took a religious name Zesho–bo _______.

4. To further his studies, Rencho traveled to :
• _______________
• temples of __________
• Monasteries of Mount Hiei and Mount Koya near _________

5. After some ______ years of study, he finally became convinced that Shakyamuni’s ultimate teaching was found in the _______ Sutra.

PROCLAMATION OF NAM -MYOHO-RENGE-KYO

1. What did the priests do when Rencho returned at the end of his long years of study?

2. What happened on the early morning of 28 April, 1253?

3. Briefly describe, three important events that took place in the meeting later that day?

4. What are the “ four dictums”

5. In pronouncing the so called “four dictums”, what did Nichiren Daishonin effectively declare?

6. What was the consequence?

7. Who helped Nichiren Daishonin escape?

8. Where did Nichiren Daishonin settle after escaping the arrest warrant?

9. In November 1253 who became Nichiren Daishonin’s first disciple?

10. Some of Nichiren Daishonin’s early disciples were priests, others belonged to the_________ families.

11. Nichiren Daishonin’s first disciples were:
• _______________________
• _______________________
• _______________________
• _______________________
ON ESTABLISHING THE CORRECT TEACHING FOR THE PEACE OF THE LAND

1. What calamities were ravaging the country at that time?

2. In March 1259 and in April 1260, in accordance with the custom, what did the government proclaim? Why? What was the outcome?

3. In 1258 Nichiren Daishonin went to __________ temple, which had all of ______________’s sutras in its library.

4. Whom did he meet there?

5. Why did Nichiren Daishonin consult all the sutras in Jisso-ji’s library?

6. What did he conclude?

7. The Buddhist schools in Japan, at that time were founded on which teachings of Shakyamuni?

THE FIRST REMONSTRATION WITH THE GOVERNMENT

1. Nichiren Daishonin formulated the conclusion of his research in a treatise entitled _________________________________________________.

2. On 16 July 1260, he presented the treatise to ________ _________.

3. Who was Hojo Tokiyori?

4. The treatise entitled ‘On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land’ is known as Nichiren Daishonin’s __________ remonstration with the government.

5. What conviction did Nichiren Daishonin express in this treatise?

6. Whom did he particularly criticize?

7. Honen was the founder of ________ ________ school

8. The Great Collection sutra and the Medicine Master sutra elaborate the _________ calamities and the ___________ disasters.

9. What were the TWO disasters, Nichiren Daishonin predicted would happen, if the country continued to reject the correct teaching, Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo.

10. Nichiren Daishonin knew perfectly well that he would encounter violent persecution if he addressed his treatise to Hojo Tokiyori, but did so nonetheless. WHY?

PERSECUTION AT MATSUBAGAYATSU AND EXILE TO IZU

1. Matsubagayatsu Persecution
• Took place on which date?
• By followers of which school?
• What did they do?
• Where did Nichiren Daishonin take refuge?

2. In spite of the danger, Nichiren Daishonin returned to Kamakura the following spring. What did he do after his return and why?

3. When was Nichiren Daishonin exiled to Izu Peninsula?

4. On exile to Izu, Nichiren Daishonin was abandoned by the guards on the beach and left to his own fate. Despite the hostility felt towards exiles, Nichiren Daishonin was taken in and cared for by a fisherman and his wife. What does this indicate?

5. After how many years was Nichiren Daishonin pardoned from Izu? Which year?

6. In which writing does Nichiren Daishonin write about his pardon from Izu exile?

THE KOMATSUBARA PERSECUTION

1. Briefly describe the incident known as Komatsubara Persection.

2. In January 1268, an event confirmed Nichiren Daishonin’s prediction of foreign invasion made in ‘‘On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land.’ What had happened?

3. In April 1268, Nichiren Daishonin sent ‘The _____________ for Writing ‘On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land’ to an active member of the government.

4. In October 1268, Nichiren Daishonin sent letters to eleven high-ranking political and religious leaders pointing out that his predictions were now being fulfilled, and calling for a public religious debate to demonstrate the validity of his teachings. His appeal was ignored. Why?

THE SECOND WARNING TO THE GOVERNMENT

1. In 1271, Japan suffered severe ___________

2. What actions did the government take?

3. What public challenge did Nichiren Daishonin issue?

4. What followed and led to Nichiren Daishonin’s ______________ remonstration with the government?

5. When did this second remonstration take place?

6. Nichiren Daishonin repeated which prediction on meeting Hei no Saemon?

7. In which Gosho does Nichiren Daishonin write about his meeting with Hei no Saemon?

8. How did the meeting conclude?

THE TATSUNOKUCHI PERSECUTION

1. When did the Tatsunokuchi persecution take place?

2. Who arrested Nichiren Daishonin?

3. Nichiren Daishonin was treated like a ______________, taken to _____________ beach, an execution site near _____________.
4. Hei no Saemon had decided to have Nichiren Daishonin _____________
5. Who is Hachiman?
6. Which disciple along with his three brothers accompanied Nichiren Daishonin barefooted to Tatsunokuchi?

7. What happenend when Nichiren Daishonin was to be beheaded?

8. Why is this event of UTMOST SGNIFICANCE?

9. Nichiren Daishonin writes “Nichiren was beheaded. It is his soul that has come to the island of Sado”. Explain briefly?

EXILE TO SADO

1. After Tatsunokuchi Persecution and before being exiled to Sado, what did the authorities do with Nichiren Daishonin?

2. Describe the living conditions at Sado?

3. Inhabitants of Sado Island were very hostile. Why?

4. The authorities did not expect the Daishonin to survive the winter, but far from dying, what activities did Nichiren Daishonin undertake at Sado?

5. Briefly describe the Tsukahara debate?

6. In which Gosho does Nichiren Daishonin describe the Tsukahara debate?

7. What happened at the debate and thereafter?

8. In February 1272 another of Daishonin’s prediction came true? What had happened?

9. What was the change in government’s attitude towards Nichiren Daishonin, after this prediction came true?

10. When did Nichiren Daishonin begin to inscribe personal Gohonzon for his closest followers?

11. On Sado, Nichiren Daishonin produced many important writings including :

1) ____________________________________________________
2) ____________________________________________________
3) ____________________________________________________
4) ____________________________________________________

11. Why are these writings important?
12. ‘The Opening of the Eyes’ explains……
13. ‘ The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind’ explains:
1) ______________________________________________
2) ______________________________________________
3) ______________________________________________

THE END OF EXILE
In February 1274, the then regent, Hojo Tokimune, granted Nichiren Daishonin permission to leave Sado Island. This was probably motivated by two events that took place in 1273.

1. What were these events?

2. What did they confirm?

THE THIRD REMONSTRATION WITH THE GOVERNMENT AND DEPARTURE TO MOUNT MINOBU

1. In the third remonstration with the government what did Nichiren Daishonin
predict?

2. In keeping with this prediction, what happened in 1274?

3. Why did Nichiren Daishonin retreat to Mt. Minobu?

4. In Mt. Minobu, Nichiren Daishonin continued to:

1) ____________________________________________
2) ____________________________________________

5. Nearly half of the extant of Nichiren Daishonin’s works dates from the period he was in Mount ____________.

6. Which disciple in particular did Nichiren Daishonin train at Mt. Minobu?

7. Nikko Shonin faithfully recorded Nichiren Daishonin’s lectures in
____________________________________________________

THE ATSUHARA PERSECUTION AND FULFILLMENT OF THE DAISHONIN’S MISSION

1. In 1275 __________ ____________ took the lead in propagating Nichiren Daishonin’s teachings in the Fuji area, centered on the village of ___________, and succeeded in converting many lay people (mostly __________) and priests.

2. Who was Nanjo Tokimitsu?

3. What was the reaction of the local temples to the propagation?

4. How did the assistant chief priest of a Tendai temple in Atsuhara village, harass the Daishonin’s followers? What stance did the followers take?

5. How did Nanjo Tokimitsu conduct himself during the Atsuhara persecutions? What punishment did he have to incur?

6. What realization made Nichiren Daishonin inscribe the Dai – Gohonzon?

7. When did Nichiren Daishonin inscribe the Dai – Gohonzon?

8. How many years after first proclaiming the teaching at Seicho-ji temple did Nichiren Daishonin inscribe the Dai – Gohonzon?

9. Three days after Nichiren Daishonin inscribed the Dai – Gohonzon, what happened to his farmer disciples at Atsuhara?

10. What is collectively known as Atsuhara Persecution?


TRANSMISSION OF THE LAW AND THE DEATH OF NICHIREN DAISHONIN

1. By 1280, Nichiren Daishonin had already decided upon _______________ as his successor.

2. In which document does Nichiren Daishonin state this decision?

3. Why was Nikko Shonin clearly foremost among Nichiren Daishonin’s disciples in faith, practice and study?

4. In September 1282, what did Nichiren Daishonin transfer to Nikko Shonin?

5. In, ‘Document for Entrusting the Law Which Nichiren Propogated throughout His Life ‘ Nichiren Daishonin formally certified Nikko Shonin as
• his _______________and
• the ______________ of the propagation of his Buddhism

6. How long did Nichiren Daishonin live in Mt. Minobu?

7. On October 13, 1282, just before his death, Nichiren Daishonin wrote a second transfer document, ‘Document for Entrusting Minobu-san’, again designating ____________ as his legitimate successor.

8. At what age, when and where did Nichiren Daishonin pass away?

Sample paper 5

QUESTIONS TO FACILITATE STUDY TOWARDS THE INTRODUCTORY EXAMINATION ON NOVEMBER 18, 2007

QUESTIONS ON TEMPLE ISSUE

INTRODUCTION

1. What does “temple issue” refer to?

2. What is the process OF HUMAN REVOLUTION as it unfolds into the broader process we call KOSEN-RUFU?

3. What is the most elemental purpose of Buddhism?

4. Soka Gakkai its inception has been based on purest intent of Buddhism. What is its aim?

5. Buddhism characterizes opposition by authorities as:
• ____________________________________________________
• ____________________________________________________
• ____________________________________________________
• ____________________________________________________

6. In its harshest form, the formula of oppression in the history of Buddhism is always the same. Briefly explain, how does the oppression take place?

7. Meeting opposition in our efforts to spread the Daishonin’s Buddhism , does not mean that the SGI has done something __________and is therefore experiencing ____________.

8. How does the Daishonin explain obstacles being faced by SGI ?

9. According to Lotus Sutra, who is susceptible to negative tendencies and how can we guard against succumbing to such tendencies?

10. What is the only correct action towards anti-Buddhist attitude and behavior ? / What is the stance of Gakkai towards “Nikken Sect” ?

11. What is Nikken sect?

12. What is Soka Renaissance?

13. What has Soka Gakkai achieved by being excommunicated by Nikken?

WHAT IS TEMPLE ISSUE

14. The condition of ____________ Japanese society over the centuries has led to attitudes and orientations among Buddhist priests towards the laity that could best be described as a __________ - ___________ mentality.

15. What is “Operation C”? Who was it inspired and led by?

16. How did “Operation C” begin?

17. What was the criticism against President Ikeda’s suggestion that the choral part of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” be sung at a leaders meeting?

18. What action did Soka Gakkai take vis-à-vis the accusations of priesthood?

19. What was priesthood’s response?

20. What action did Soka Gakkai take when priesthood denied its request for dialogue?

21. The priesthood followed with a series of one sided measures. What were these measures?

22. What happened in November 1991?

23. How did Soka Gakkai respond to the excommunication?

24. What is SGI’s fundamental conviction that has been underscored by the outbreak of temple issue?

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE TEMPLE ISSUE?

25. What does temple issue address?

26. How does the need to understand the temple issue, challenge us as individuals?

27. Why is temple issue an irreplaceable learning opportunity?

28. If we do not understand and transmit the profound implications of the temple issue to future generations, we would be doing a disservice to them. Why?

29. What is correct faith?

30. What will happen if we fail to correctly grasp the meaning of faith?

31. What is the practice of shakabuku?

32. Who propounds the erroneous views?

33. Who can shed light on what is true and what is erroneous

34. In what way does a clear understanding of temple issue us?

35. What is the intent of Nichiren Shoshu towards SGI?

36. According to Nichiren Daishonin, what constitutes the “essential practice”?

37. What is the best way to protect ourselves and our fellow members from being misled by the priesthood?

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT NIKKEN?

38. State a few of the ways in which, Nikken Abe, as head of Nichiren Soshu, has acted counter to the teachings and spirit of the Daishonin’s Buddhism.

39. What is the scheme by Nikken to destroy the harmonious unity of believers, dubbed as?

40. What are the two main plots of this scheme?

41. What is termed as danto movement?

42. Which act of Nikken is unprecedented in the history of world religion?

43. What alteration in the doctrine of Nichiren Daishonin’s teachings has Nikken preached?

44. What does Nikken’s behavior suggest? What has it led to?

45. Nikken’s perverse nature has placed him in direct opposition to the noble cause of _________________.

WHAT IS THE REAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TEMPLE AND THE SGI?

46. The difference between the SGI and Nichiren Shoshu can clearly be seen in atleast four key areas. Briefly describe these differences.

SGI Nichiren Shoshu
VIEW ON EQUALITY
VIEW OF THE GOHONZON
VIEW OF THE “HERITAGE” OF THE LAW
ATTITUDE & BEHAVIOUR

IF THE PRIESTHOOD HAS BEEN MISGUIDED ALL ALONG, WHY DID THE SGI SUPPORT IT IN THE PAST?

47. Why did SGI support the priesthood in the past?

48. What is the concept of Nichiren Daishonin’s ideal called kosen-rufu?

49. When did SGI begin to admonish the priesthood and refute their erroneous teachings in the spirit of admonishing slander?

50. What happened in December 2005?

WHY DID SGI DECIDE TO ISSUE THE GOHONZON?

51. Which year did SGI decide to issue the Gohonzon?

52. Who put forward this proposal to SGI to issue the Gohonzon to its members?

53. The Gohonzon issued by SGI is a reproduction of which Gohonzon?

54. The significance of the SGI’s decision to issue the Gohonzon can be seen from two perspectives. Explain briefly?

WHY DOES NICHIREN SHOSHU CLAIM THAT THE GOHONZON ISSUED BY THE SGI IS “COUNTERFEIT”?

55. The priesthood asserts that the Gohonzon issued by the SGI are “counterfeit” because:
1) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

56. According to Daishonin, what helps us tap the power of the Gohonzon within us?

57. What is the significance of “eye-opening”?

58. What is the key to summon forth the state of Buddhahood?

59. What is Daishonin’s view of the power of prayer?

60. How do we derive benefit from the Gohonzon?

WHY ARE MEMBERS EXCHANGING THEIR NIKKEN-TRANSCRIBED
GOHONZON FOR THE ONE TRANSCRIBED BY NICHIKAN? WHAT IS THE
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THESE GOHONZON?

61. What was Nichiren Daishonin’s intent in inscribing the Gohonzon?

62. Why is Nikken least qualified person to act o behalf of Nichiren Daishonin in transcribing the Gohonzon?

63. Why are members exchanging their Nikken-transcribed Gohonzon for the one transcribed by Nichikan?

64. According to Buddhism what is a profoundly good cause?

65. How cause are members making by chanting to the Gohonzon transcribed by Nichikan?


HOW CAN WE HELP THOSE WHO FOLLOW THE PRIESTS (DANTO)?

66. How does Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism describe the strictness of the law of cause and effect?

67. According to the Daishonin’s teachings what is the worst effect a person can receive from slandering the law?

68. What is inconspicuous loss or punishment?

69. Though the law of _________ is strict, Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism is based on ________________.

70. How can we help those who follow the priests (Danto)?







Sample paper 6

Questions Based on the Concepts---

Please Note:
1. These questions are meant to help you learn better
2. They are not indicative in any which way of how the paper will be set

Mutual Possession of Ten-Worlds

Q1.What does the pre lotus-sutra teachings expound on the Ten-Worlds?

Q2.What do ‘Mutual possession of the Ten-Worlds” mean?

Q3.How is this principle important to transform life steeped in Earthly desires, karma and suffering.

Q4.Do you have to change form to attain Budhha-Hood?

Three obstacles and four devils

Q1. What do the 3 obstacles and 4 devils mean?

Q2. Distinguish between obstacles and devils?

Q3. List three obstacles and four devils.

Q4. What should one do when they arise?

Q5. Why are these obstruction necessary?

Q6. When do these devilish forces attack?

Q7. What will happen if you allow these obstructions to effect you?

Earthly Desires are Enlightenment

Q1. What is the difference between Mahayana and Hinayana teachings on Earthly desires and Enlightenment?

Q2. Which are the Earthly desires that lead to suffering?

Q3. Explain Earthly desires are Enlightenment with help of an example or metaphor?

Q4. How can we transform earthly desires into Enlightenment?

Three Powerful Enemies

Q1. What are three powerful enemies?

Q2. Which of three is the most formidable of thr three powerful enemies?

Q3. Why is Nichiren Daishonin the true votary of the Lotus-Sutra?

Bodhisattvas Of the Earth

Q1. Who are Bodhisattvas of the Earth?

Q2. In which chapter of the Lotus-Sutra do they appear?

Q3. Describe the emergence of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth.

Q4. Name the four leaders of the BOE.

Q5. Describe the qualities of each BOE.
Oneness of life and environment

Q1. Explain esho funi in detail. What is eho? What is sho? What is ho? Of sho?

Q2. How does the principle of esho funi work to make us happy?

Q3. How can we apply this principle to change the land we live in?

Q4. What is the relation between man and his environment? How can they affect one another?

Q5.Are there two lands? Where does the pure land exist?

Q6 .where does the grand palace of happiness exist ?
Q 7 What is the key to accessing that grand palace of happiness
Oneness of Body and mind

Q1. Explain the principle of oneness of body and mind.

Q2. Explain shiki-shin funi.

Q3. How are material and spiritual seemingly separate phenomena indivisible?
Benevolent Deities

Q1. What are shoten zenjin?

Q2. What is the function of benevolent deities?

Q3. How can we activate the benevolent deities?

Sample paper 7
QUESTIONS TO FACILITATE STUDY TOWARDS INTRODUCTORY EXAMINATION ON

QUESTIONS ON BUDDHIST CONCEPTS

MUTUAL POSSESION OF TEN WORLDS

11. What was the pre-Lotus Sutra teachings concept of the ten worlds?

12. How did the theory of the ‘Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds’ revolutionize this concept?

13. What is one of the component principles of Tien-t’ai’s doctrine of three thousand realms in a single moment of life?

14. What does ‘Mutual Possession’ mean?

15. What is the important point of the principal of the ‘Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds’?

16. The principles of the ‘inclusion of Buddhahood in the nine worlds’ and the inclusion of the nine worlds in Buddhahood’ hold great importance. Why?

17. “The Life Span” Chapter of the Lotus Sutra refers to what aspect of Shakyamuni’s enlightenment?

18. In “The Life Span” Chapter of the Lotus Sutra, the Daishonin discerned the means for :
• attaining Buddhahood without having to discard one’s body as an ordinary person of the nine worlds
• actualizing the principle of the ‘Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds’

19. A life-state in the nine worlds is steeped in:
• _______________________
• _______________________
• _______________________

20. The key to transforming a life state in nine worlds into Buddhahood is:
• ___________________________________
• ___________________________________
• ___________________________________

THREE OBSTACLES AND FOUR DEVILS
11. Explain in simple terms the three obstacles and four devils which are listed in the Nirvana Sutra?

12. The Gosho states,
• “As _________ progresses and ___________ grows, the __________ obstacles and four _______ emerge in confusing forms, vying with one another to interfere…

• One should be neither ______________ nor _______________ by them.

• If one falls under their influence, one will be led into the paths of _______. If one is frightened by them, one will be prevented from practicing the ______________ teaching.

13. Why are devils certain to appear in the course of our practice?

14. When devils and obstacles appear, what is the crucial juncture at which one finds oneself?

15. Obstacles refer to __________ whereas devils are literally translated as robbers of _________ and __________.

16. What are the three obstacles?

17. Briefly explain:
Obstacles Cause Manifestation of obstruction
1) Obstacle of earthly desire



2) Obstacle of karma



3) Obstacle of retribution




18. Briefly explain

Four Devils Manifestation of Hindrance
1) The hindrance of five components


2) The hindrance of earthly desire


3) The hindrance of death


4) The hindrance of the devil of the sixth heaven



19. Which hindrance is regarded as most difficult to overcome?

20. What do devilish functions prey on?

21. “Strengthen your faith day by day and month after month. Should you slacken even a bit, demons will take advantage” (WND -1, p. 997). What does this passage tell us?

22. The practice of Buddhism is a continuous struggle against:
• _______________________
• _______________________

23. If devils do not appear in our practice of Buddhism, what does it indicate?

24. The Gosho states, “Something uncommon also occurs when an ordinary person attains _______________. At such a time, the three __________ and four ____________ will invariably appear, and the _________ will rejoice while the foolish will __________. (WND-1, p. 636)

25. What should we do when the devilish functions occur in our life ? With what conviction should undertake these activites?

26. What is the only way to lead a brilliant and victorious life?

EARTHLY DESIRES ARE ENLIGHTENMENT
27. What is the contrast between the Mahayana and the Hinayana view of earthly desires?

28. The most basic type of earthly desires are represented by :
• ________________
• ________________ and
• ________________

39. What does Greed mean?

40. What does Anger signify?

41. What does Stupidity refer to?

42. What is the basis of all suffering and unhappiness in our lives?

43. It would be simplistic to dismiss desire as wholly evil. Illustrate how desires can be the driving force of civilization?

44. What does the word “are” in the phrase “earthly desires are enlightenment” mean?

45. Illustrate the principle of “earthly desires are enlightenment,” with a metaphor.

46. What happens to our earthly desires when we tap our Buddha nature, through practice to the Gohonzon?

THREE POWERFUL ENEMIES

47. Briefly explain, who are the three powerful enemies?

48. Miao-lo summarizes the three powerful enemies as:

THREE POWERFUL ENEMIES ACTION TAKEN AGAINST PRACTITIONERS
1) Arrogant lay people



2) Arrogant Priests




3) Arrogant false sages






41. Which is the most formidable of the three powerful enemies?

42. Nichiren Daishonin was able to identify himself as the votary, or true practitioner of the Lotus Sutra because, just as prophesized in the sutra, he was
• ________________________________________________________
• ________________________________________________________
• ________________________________________________________

ONENESS OF LIFE AND ITS ENVIRONMENT

50. MATCH THE FOLLOWING:

Esho Funi
Indicates “two(in phenomena) but not two (in essence).”
Esho
Reward or effect
Shoho
Abbreviation of nini-funi
Eho
The oneness of life and its environment
Funi
Denotes a living being
Nini funi
Combination of the first syllables of eho and shoho
Ho of shoho & eho Environment on which a living being is dependent for its life activities and survival

51. Why does each living being have its own unique environment?

52. Esho Funi as a concept goes further than denoting just the inseparable relationship between man and his environment. What does this principle show/teach us?

53. The way we see our environment differs depending on
• ___________________________________
• ___________________________________

54. Life extends its influence into the surroundings. What is our environment a reflection of?

55. Nichiren Daishonin writes in ‘ On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime: “Ifthe minds of living beings are ___________, their land is also impure, but if their minds are pure, so is their lands. There are no two lands, _______ or __________ in themselves. The difference lies solely in the _______ or evil of our minds.”

56. Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism enables us to transform the place where we are now into, ‘a Land of Eternally Tranquil Light” and there construct a palace of happiness. How can we achieve this happiness?
ONENESS OF BODY AND MIND

57. Briefly explain the principle of oneness of body and mind.




58. Match the following:

Shikishin-funi Indicates “two(in phenomena) but not two (in essence).”
Shiki
Abbreviation of nini-funi
Shin
Oneness of body and mind
Funi That which has form and colour or physical existence
Nini-funi That which has neither form nor colour, such as mind, heart and soul


58. Though the material and the spiritual are two separate classes of phenomena, they are indivisible. Illustrate this with an example of a person

59. What is a very important function of matter and spirit as an inseparable whole?

60. The record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings reads, “ ( Concerning the term dedication of one’s life) ‘____________ refers to the element of physical form as it pertains to us while ‘_________’ refers to the element of mind as it pertains to us. But the ultimate teaching tells us that _________ and ________ are not two.”

61. According to Nichiren Daishonin, how can we manifest the true aspect of ones wherein body and mind are in complete harmony?

BODHISATTVAS OF THE EARTH

62. Who are Bodhisattvas of the Earth?

63. They are described in which chapter of the Lotus Sutra?

64. Shakyamuni Buddha entrusted the propagation of the mystic law in the Latter Day of the Law to the Bodhisattvas of the Earth in the ________ world.


65. The Bodhisattvas of the Earth are lead by four bodhisattvas. They are:
5) ___________________________________
6) ___________________________________
7) ___________________________________
8) ___________________________________

61. Who is the leader among these four bodhisattvas?

62. In which chapter of the Lotus Sutra does Shakyamuni transfer the essence of the Lotus Sutra to the Bodhisattvas of the Earth, entrusting them with the mission of propagating it in the Latter Day of the Law?

63. The four bodhisattvas are the embodiment of the four noble qualities of a Buddha. These noble qualities are:
• ___________________
• ___________________
• ___________________
• ___________________


63. MATCH THE FOLLOWING:
Name of the Bodhisattva Quality of a Buddha
BODHISATTVA SUPERIOR PRACTICES PURITY

BODHISATTVA BOUNDLESS PRACTICES HAPPINESS

BODHISATTVA PURE PRACTICES TRUE SELF

BODHISATTVA FIRMLY ESTABLISHED PRACTICES ETERNITY


64. Match the following :
Quality of a Buddha STATE OF LIFE
HAPPINESS
• Awareness that one is a Buddha.
• A state of life characterized by Firm sense of independence and
• Conviction that remains unfazed by hardships
PURITY
• A state of being awakened to life’s eternity across the three existences of past, present and future
• A vast and boundless state of mind based on the eternal law of cause and effect
• A state that is free of suffering caused by fear of death, which stems from ignorance of the eternity of life
ETERNITY
• Represents the function of continuously manifesting the pure life of the Buddha and
• Purifying all phenomena while remaining untainted by the defilements of the world
TRUE SELF
• A life state of spiritual peace and enlightenment.
• Brims with a strong life-force and enjoyment of life, never wavering in the face of hardships
• Represents the function of making others fee safe and supported.

63. When we undertake the mission of the Bodhisattva of the Earth, what life state do we manifest in or lives and what does it enable us to achieve?

64. Nichiren Daishonin identified himself with which Bodhisattva?

65. In ‘The True Aspect of All Phenomena’ Nichiren Daishonin states: “ There should be no ___________________ among those who propagate the five characters of myoho-renge-kyo in the Latter Day of the Law, be they _________ or women. Were they not Bodhisattvas of the Earth, they could not chant the _____________. “

66. According to the lotus Sutra, what are the qualities that the Bodhisattvas of the Earth possess?

BENEVOLENT DEITIES

67. Briefly describe the shoten zenjin or benevolent deties?
68. What form do they appear in?
69. Some of the Benevolent deities include:
• _______________________
• _______________________
• _______________________
• _______________________
70. In the Lotus Sutra, who are regarded as the gods?

71. Whom do the benevolent deities serve to protect?

72. Benevolent deities are not in any way the object of ______________.

73. From the viewpoint of Buddhism’s profound life philosophy, it is not mere coincidence but logical for benevolent deities to appear. What brings forth the phenomena of shoten zenjin at a crucial moment?

74. In the Gosho, ‘Genera Stone Tiger’ the Daishonin states, “The stronger one’s _____________, the greater the ___________ of the gods. This means that the protection of gods depends on the _____________ of one’s faith.

75. In ‘ The Treatment of Illness’, the Daishonin writes “ The fundamental nature of __________________manifests itself as Brahma and Shakra whereas the fundamental _______________ manifests itself as the devil king of the sixth heaven”.

76. In the above passage what are Gods viewed as?

77. How can we who practice the Mystic Law change circumstances into the workings of Buddhist gods?

PERCEPT OF ADAPTING TO LOCAL CUSTOMS

78. Briefly explain the Buddhist percept of adapting to the local custom?

79. What does the Buddhist concept of zuiho bini mean?

80. With regard to the Buddhist percept of adapting to the local custom, what was Shinichi’s biggest fear, as expressed in the New Human Revolution?


• Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds
1. Explain the concept mutual possession of the ten worlds.
2. What is the difference between pre-lotus sutra teachings and the lotus sutra teachings?
3. Why is it important to understand the concept of Mutual Possession of the ten worlds?
4. How can we manifest the supreme state of Buddhahood in our lives?
5. A Buddha is different from ordinary people. Is this true or false?
• The Three Obstacles and Four Devils
6. What are the three obstacles and four devils?
7. What do the three obstacles and four devils hinder?
8. Which hindrance is said to assume various forms in order to cause one to discard one’s Buddhist practice?
9. Which hindrance is the most difficult to overcome?
• Earthly Desires Lead to Enlightenment
10. How can earthly desires lead to enlightenment?
11. How can we direct our earthly desires towards enlightenment?
12. The Lotus blooms in muddy waters. How can we correlate this with our practice?
• Three Powerful Enemies
13. Who are the three powerful Enemies?
14. Which of the three powerful enemies is the most powerful?
• Oneness of Life and its Environment
15. What is the concept of Esho funi?
16. In ‘On Attaining Buddhahood in this Lifetime’, the Daishonin writes, “If the minds of living beings are ____________, their ________ is also ________, but if their minds are pure, so is their land.”
17. Why is it important to view ourselves and our environment as essentially one?
• Oneness of Body and Mind
18. What does the Japanese term Shikishin-funi mean?
19. How can we manifest the true aspect of oneness of body and mind?
• Bodhisattvas of the Earth
20. Who are the Bodhisattvas of the earth?
21. Which noble qualities of a Buddha are represented by the Bodhisattvas of the Earth?
22. Which Bodhisattva represents true self?
23. Which Bodhisattva corresponds to eternity?
24. Which Bodhisattva corresponds to purity?
25. Which Bodhisattva corresponds to happiness and a life state of spiritual peace and enlightenment?
• Precept of Adapting to Local Customs
26. What does the Japanese term zuiho bini mean?
27. What does the Buddhist Precept of Adapting to Local Customs indicate?
28. What is Sensei’s biggest concern in the area of Buddhist Precept of Adapting to Local Customs?
• Benevolent Deities
29. Who are the benevolent deities?
30. Which prayer do we offer to the benevolent deities?
31. When and how did the benevolent deities protect the Daishonin?
32. How can we strengthen the benevolent deities?